Station Nishiokoppe Hanayume

Discover Nature’s Symphony at Nishiokoppe Hanayume

Nestled along National Route 239, just 30 kilometers inland from the rugged shores of the Okhotsk Sea, Nishiokoppe Hanayume is a vibrant roadside station where wildflower meadows meet ancient forest. Spanning six hectares, its signature red-hued border garden, dominated by vibrant madder herb, evokes the charm of European countryside, while the soothing melodies of the handcrafted mechanical organ “Oto Giyashi” — one of only two in Japan — drift through the air, powered by the wind.

Beyond its floral beauty, the station offers a rich tapestry of local experiences: savor creamy grass-fed soft serve made from milk of pasture-raised cows, sample wild game delicacies like deer and brown bear canned stews, or browse artisanal goods including wild mountain vegetables and regional souvenirs featuring the beloved local mascot, Setoushi-kun. With park golf, a giant slide, and a family-friendly water play area, Nishiokoppe Hanayume is a destination where nature, culture, and community come together in perfect harmony.

Nishiokoppe Hanayume stands out for its rare, handcrafted wind-powered automaton organ, Oto Giyashi, created by one of Japan’s two remaining street organ artisans. Nestled within a 6-hectare flower park, the vibrant red borders of monarda flowers stretch across a 50-meter garden, offering a European-style retreat unlike any other roadside station. Visitors can savor the region’s only grass-fed soft cream, made from milk of cows grazing on native pasture, and purchase limited-edition game preserves—like the rare higuma (bear) stew—harvested only once a year, making this a truly one-of-a-kind destination.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to enjoy the full range of fresh grass-fed milk products, including the limited-edition seasonal soft cream, before they sell out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter near the entrance to find the Shikakan (Ezo deer meat canned food) in all three flavors—dashi stew, miso, and curry—available only at Nishiokoppe Hanayume and not sold elsewhere in the region.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the park’s central flower garden between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to experience the Oto-gi-bayashi mechanical organ playing its full melody, as it automatically activates every hour on the hour during daylight hours.

• Must-Try Item: Purchase the Higuma Kan (bear meat canned food) at the shop counter before 2:00 PM, as it is a rare, seasonal item that sells out quickly due to its annual limited production.

• Local Insight: Use the 24-hour stamp station located just outside the main entrance to collect the official stamp even when the roadside station is closed—ideal for travelers arriving late or early before opening hours.

• Family Tip: Bring a swimsuit and visit the children’s water play area, which is located near the border of the flower park, between the red border garden and the playground—open only during the warmer months (April to October) and best enjoyed before 3:00 PM when the sun is strongest.

• Gift Strategy: Buy the Setoushi-kun printed cookies and the Sansai (wild mountain vegetables) in a single bundle at the shop counter to receive a small discount and ensure you have both a sweet and savory local souvenir.

Spring (March-May): Peak bloom of the red monarda flowers in the 6ha flower park from late April to early May.

Summer (June-August): Best time for grass-fed soft cream and fresh mountain vegetables from local harvests.

Autumn (September-November): Prime season for deer meat canned goods and scenic views in the park.

Winter (December-February): Quiet visits to enjoy the wind-powered music organ and snowy landscape.